Chionanthus virginicus

Native Fringetree (Grancy Gray Beard)

This slow-growing native tree blooms in early May.  It has striking panicles of fragrant, white flowers in spring just before it leafs out. With 6-10" long panicles covering the entire plant, this is one of our prettiest flowering native trees. Medium to dark green, lustrous leaves emerge as the flowers fade. Dark blue fruits are 1/2" - 2/3" long in August but not very noticeable because the foliage covers them. Birds relish the fruit. 

Fringetree is beautiful as a specimen plant or in small groups along a woodland border. It provides good understory cover and nesting sites for birds.

Fall foliage is clear yellow.

  • Slow growing deciduous, native tree
  • Multi-stem or single stem
  • Fringe-like, white flowers

  • Category: Tree, Native
  • Hardiness Zone: 4-9
  • Height: 12-20 ft
  • Spread: 12-20 ft
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Classification by Use
Color Impact
Landscape Characteristics
Branch Structure
Flowers
Ornamental Fruit
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Chionanthus virginicus

Fringetree is happy in full sun or light shade. It prefers deep moist, fertile soil but is extremely adaptable. Very low maintenance; rarely needs pruned.